Andalucia's splendid landscapes, food and culture are the focus of this walking adventure that takes us into the heart and soul of Spain's most passionate region. It has been described as the 'least European' part of Europe and was the last stronghold of the Moors, who first arrived here from North Africa in the 8th Century. Early records show an unusual tolerance for cultural diversity during the Muslim occupation of southern Spain, but gradually the Moorish population was driven further and further south until there was nowhere left to go. Seville fell in the early 13th-Century and Granada endured until 1492, when the Moors were finally expelled. Yet it was this history that has made Andalucia what it is today. Seville is the vibrant provincial capital and home of flamenco, whilst the area around Ronda is one of the most beautiful, yet undiscovered parts of the Iberian Peninsula. The landscape is hilly and dotted with delightful small towns and villages of unquestionable beauty. With narrow little streets and alleyways exuding a distinctly Moorish air, these charming places are often built on steep slopes and their houses usually resplendent with wrought-iron balconies, draped with bright red geraniums. Walking around the town of Ronda, with its dramatic position above a deep ravine, is always fascinating, while Granada offers a wonderful insight into the rich culture of the Moorish period with its piece de resistance being the splendid and incomparable Alhambra Palace. After all our walking and exploring, we relax in the evenings and watch Andalucia come to life by treating ourselves to the delicious local cuisine. To walk in the hills and through the villages and meet the friendly people of this region is to celebrate life as only the Andalucians can!
Highlights
SevilleGrazalemaGrazalema National ParkZahara de la SierraRondaTapas tourGranadaAlhambra Palace
Itinerary:
1 (Sun) Arrive in Seville.2 Walking tour of Seville, including cathedral and climb up Giralda mosque tower (3 hours).3 Drive to Grazalema. Guided walk around Zahara de la Sierra and Grazalema National Park (3 hours).4 Walking tour of Ronda and surrounds (3 hours).5 Free day in Grazalema. Optional walks in national park.6 Drive to Granada. Walking tour around Moorish Quarter (2 hours).7 Visit Alhambra Palace. Optional afternoon walk in surrounding countryside.8 Tour ends in Granada after breakfast (Sun).
Included: Peregrine tour leader, transport and sightseeing.
Not Included: International flights, arrival and departure transfers, departure taxes, visas, insurance, other meals, drinks, optional additional tours or activities during free time, tips and items of a personal nature.
Notes: Pre-departure document PDI Please carefully read these trip notes in conjunction with the pre-departure document (PDI) which you will recieve upon confirmation of your holiday. This important document contains further information about your European trip that you will need to know before you travel.
Meals: 7 breakfasts4 dinners
Valid From: 1/01/2007
Starts/Ends: Seville/Granada
Trip Reference: PEAA
